A Travel Price Comparison for California Palm Springs vs. San Francisco for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Hiking

Should you visit Palm Springs or San Francisco?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Palm Springs and San Francisco can help you decide which place is right for you.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a chic, outdoorsy, and ritzy city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

San Francisco

San Francisco is a quirky, eccentric, and one-of-a-kind coastal city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Palm Springs and San Francisco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in San Francisco than Palm Springs, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. San Francisco is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palm Springs is more popular for its nightlife and resorts. Palm Springs is well known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. San Francisco is well known for its striking bayfront setting, stunning urban hikes, quirky personality, and reputation within the tech industry. Also, San Francisco is famous for The Golden Gate Bridge.

How is Palm Springs different from San Francisco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Francisco and Palm Springs. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its sights and museums. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in San Francisco that are not to be missed. The city's landmarks are as diverse as the people who live there. The most recognizable landmark is the famous Golden Gate Bridge, but visitors also enjoy seeing Alcatraz Island, the Legion of Honor, the Palace of Fine Arts, as well as the small but fascinating Cable Car Museum.

Palm Springs offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Theater?

San Francisco is very good for theatre. However, Palm Springs is not a theatre destination.

San Francisco offers a number of shows and performances. The city has around a dozen theaters where you can enjoy musicals or plays.

Palm Springs is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Palm Springs or San Francisco? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

San Francisco has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are local dives as well as five star restaurants, with everything in between. Popular local dining experiences include sourdough bread bowls and Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, and dim sum in Chinatown. Head away from the touristy neighborhoods if you want to sample some of the more local restaurants around town.

Palm Springs has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, San Francisco is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for nightlife.

Palm Springs has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in San Francisco. It has a great nightlife with many local bars and trendy clubs. For the best nightlife away from the tourists, head to Valencia Street or Polk Street. If you want to be in a more touristy area, check out Union Square. Popular clubs in the city include Temple San Francisco, Monarch, and Audio Nightclub.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Music?

San Francisco is very good for live music. However, Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in San Francisco. Well known music venues include the Great American Music Hall, Slim's, and The Chapel.

Palm Springs is not a live music destination.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

San Francisco is not a resort destination.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Beaches?

San Francisco is notable for its beaches. However, Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

San Francisco is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Whether you're interested in surfing or simply taking in the dramatic views, the beaches of San Francisco will take your breath away. Some of the best beaches include Ocean Beach, Baker Beach, and Muir Beach.

Palm Springs is not a beach destination.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Hiking?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit San Francisco specifically for its hiking. The city's hikes take in the dramatic views of the bay and city. Just outside of town there are also countless hikes through the Redwoods and along the coastline. Popular hikes in the area include Lands End, Tomales Point Trail at Point Reyes National Seashore, and Muir Woods.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Palm Springs. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for shopping. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

San Francisco is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has excellent shopping from local vendors to recognizable brands. Union Square, Embarcadero, Fillmore Street and Haight Street are some of the best neighborhoods for shopping.

Palm Springs is well-known for its shopping. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Families?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its family-friendly activities. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

San Francisco is one of the most popular family destinations. With its many outdoor parks, hiking trails, beaches, and kid-friendly museums, this city makes a great family-friendly destination. There are also many amazing playgrounds with stunning views of the bay and city. Head to Chinatown for some unique and kid-friendly food, or down to Pier 39 for fun activities that the whole family can enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Palm Springs is very family-friendly. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Couples?

Both Palm Springs and San Francisco are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

San Francisco makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples enjoy the romantic backdrop of this beautiful city. There are world-class restaurants and plenty of spas that couples can enjoy during a honeymoon or romantic getaway. There are also many scenic walks and breathtaking views that couples can appreciate.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Francisco is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit San Francisco. The city is one of the more backpacker friendly cities in the United States. There are a handful of hostels throughout, many concentrated in the popular Union Square and Downtown neighborhoods of the city.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Students?

San Francisco is notable for students. However, Palm Springs is not popular with students.

San Francisco is very popular with students. As a large and dynamic city, the area is popular with international students who want to experience this unique side of the United States. Major universities in the area include University of San Francisco, San Francisco State University, and nearby, the University of California, Berkeley.

Palm Springs is not popular with students.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Francisco is an amazing coastal city to visit for its public transit. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in San Francisco is top-notch. The transit network includes a subway (the BART), trams, cable cars, ferries, and buses.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

Is Palm Springs or San Francisco a more walkable city?

San Francisco is notable for its walkability. Also, Palm Springs is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

San Francisco is very walkable. It is compact enough to explore on foot, but given the large hills, it's a bit of a challenge, even for the most fit among us.

Palm Springs is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

For even more information, also check out Is Palm Springs Worth Visiting? and Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Francisco or Palm Springs?

How long in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

Both Palm Springs and San Francisco have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in San Francisco than in Palm Springs. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Palm Springs, and 3-7 days is enough time in San Francisco.

Families should spend more time in San Francisco than Palm Springs. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Francisco, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in San Francisco than Palm Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in San Francisco that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Francisco than Palm Springs if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in San Francisco.

One day in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy destination of Palm Springs. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palm Springs. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

San Francisco is a fun place to experience. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the chic destination of Palm Springs. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Each neighborhood in San Francisco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Palm Springs or San Francisco?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Palm Springs. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

San Francisco is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Palm Springs and San Francisco, we can see that San Francisco is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Palm Springs Expensive? and Is San Francisco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palm Springs or San Francisco?

San Francisco has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Palm Springs. When comparing the sizes of Palm Springs and San Francisco, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Palm Springs or San Francisco?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Palm Springs or San Francisco in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as San Francisco. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palm Springs this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Francisco for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palm Springs is generally a little warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 73°F (23°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in July than San Francisco. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or San Francisco in the Autumn?

Both San Francisco and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to San Francisco in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Palm Springs is a little warmer than San Francisco in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 69°F (20°C) in October, and San Francisco fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In October, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palm Springs or San Francisco in the Winter?

Both San Francisco and Palm Springs during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palm Springs in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Francisco for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Palm Springs is a little warmer than San Francisco. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palm Springs in January average around 57°F (14°C), and San Francisco averages at about 50°F (10°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in January than San Francisco. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palm Springs or San Francisco in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and San Francisco. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to San Francisco because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Palm Springs is generally a little warmer than San Francisco. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 62°F (17°C), and San Francisco fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

In April, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than San Francisco. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 mm) of rain, while San Francisco receives 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Francisco and Palm Springs